Thinking ahead to summer – plan an organic pizza garden

I’m getting pretty sick of the cold winter, so I’ve decided to look ahead a bit to summer. You can too with this fun garden project for the kids and you to grow together. Not only is this plan the perfect introduction to gardening for kids, but it can be grown on a small plot or even in pots.

Keep in mind that garlic, grown from bulbs, in your pizza garden, may or may not be doable, depending on where you live. For example, in Oregon we grow garlic in the fall (normally), so you wouldn’t be planting your garlic at the same time as the rest of your garden. Also, many types of garlic do not fare well when planted in the spring. Still, this is a longer conversation then we have time for. To learn more about garlic in your area, contact your local Extension Service Office.

Think creatively. Beyond the cheese of course, you really can grow anything you’d like for your pizza – spinach, artichoke, marjoram, broccoli and so on.

Planning and plotting:

After choosing plant types, you and your child can choose seeds. Go 100% organic. Why garden with pesticides? Seeds of Change offers a great selection of organic seeds and plants.

If you’re growing in a small plot, use garden twine or hemp to scale off a small round area and also scale off “slices.” Let your child create signs for each plot. For a fun, real crust effect, mark off a larger, second rim around your circle plot and add an easy to grow crust such as chives.

If you’re growing in pots, you’re more limited as to veggies for your pizza. For example, I’ve grown tomatoes outside but can’t for the life of me grow them in pots. Many can, just not me, so feel free to give it a whirl. Mushrooms grown with a kit, all kinds of herbs, onions and even bell peppers can be grown in containers on a sunny balcony. If you do grow in pots, kids might enjoy decorating them with “pizza” designs.